Just as "Spartacus: War of the Damned" ends its popular run, Starz brings us the drama series "Da Vinci's Demons" where we follow the life of a 25-year old Leonardo Da Vinci (Tom Riley) in 15th century Florence, Italy. The series, from David S. Goyer (TV's "FlashForward" and screenwriter of the recent "Batman" franchise reboot), is labeled a "historical fantasy" and show Da Vinci's genius at work while also incorporating his real life troubles with the law, his sexuality and fiery relationship with Lucrezia Donati (Laura Haddock), who just so happens to be the mistress to the mighty Lorenzo Medici (Elliot Cowan).

Last week in Florence, Starz and Fox International held an international junket and our own Jim Halterman was there to sit down with stars Riley, Haddock, Blake Ritson (Count Riario) and Lara Pulver (Clarice Orsini) as well as Goyer to talk about the new series, its various controversies and what they think audiences will take from it.

"Da Vinci's Demons" premieres tonight at 10:00/9:00c on Starz following the series finale of "Spartacus: War of the Damned."